Exploring the Personality Design Space of Robots: Personalities and Design Implications for Non-Anthropomorphic Wellness Robots

Abstract

Non-anthropomorphic robots can be cost-effective<br/>and efficient choice in certain context in comparison to<br/>social or humanoid robots. However, introduction of non-<br/>anthropomorphic robots can evoke uncertainty and anxiety<br/>due to novelty of technology. The goal of this paper is to<br/>explore personality design space for non-anthropomorphic well-<br/>ness robots in office environment to foster acceptance among<br/>users. Through Participatory Design approach, we explored<br/>appropriate personalities for a well-being robot, which would<br/>detect employees’ sitting posture and suggest small wellness<br/>interventions. We addressed the following research questions:<br/>(i) How can personalities be designed and integrated to non-<br/>anthropomorphic wellness robots to promote users’ acceptance?<br/>(ii) How do the users perceive designed personalities of non-<br/>anthropomorphic wellness robot in the office context? We<br/>conducted one contextual inquiry (n=5) and one co-design<br/>workshop (n=15) followed by evaluation (n=5) in IT office<br/>environment with office employees . As a contribution to the<br/>paper, we present personalities and design implications for<br/>non-anthropomorphic wellness robot in the office context. Our<br/>contribution will serve as a guideline for designers to explore<br/>and expand their knowledge on designing robot personalities<br/>for non-anthropomorphic robots in the context.